Canon

The term 'Canon' refers to a collection of texts or works considered authoritative within a particular field, religion, or culture. It establishes a standard of quality and significance, often shaping understanding, interpretation, and practice. A Canon usually represents the most important works, defining a core body of knowledge or creative achievement. Acceptance into a Canon is often determined by a process of critical evaluation, historical significance, and lasting influence. Canons evolve over time, subject to reevaluation and societal shifts, reflecting changing values and perspectives.

Canon meaning with examples

• The established literary Canon in universities typically includes Shakespeare, Austen, and Dickens, but contemporary critics often debate the exclusion of diverse voices and perspectives, calling for broader representation and a more inclusive Canon to reflect modern sensibilities and experiences. This reshuffling of what is considered important.
• Within the Catholic Church, the Canon of Scripture encompasses the books of the Old and New Testaments deemed divinely inspired and forming the foundation of religious belief and practice, serving as the official doctrine of the church. Any writings or beliefs contradicting it would not be accepted. It guides practices.
• Film students often study a film Canon featuring directors like Hitchcock and Welles, learning from their techniques and innovations to understand the history of filmmaking and cinematic language. These are considered crucial works in the craft. Other films are usually deemed less important.
• The Canon of scientific knowledge includes theories like relativity and evolution, validated by empirical evidence and widely accepted within the scientific community, and forms the basis for further research. Science's acceptance must be proven. Others are theories.
• In music, the Canon of classical composers such as Bach and Mozart represents a selection of their works that are frequently performed and studied, and form the basis for any understanding of western classical music, thus the basis of many music courses and study.